The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has called for strengthened military collaboration, intelligence sharing and capacity building among ECOWAS nations to safeguard the region and its people
Matawalle stated this on Wednesday during the Gala Night for the 43rd Ordinary Meeting of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff in Abuja.
He said the prevailing security challenges facing the West African sub-region required the collaborative efforts of all the affected countries.
He expressed the appreciation of the Government of Nigeria to the ECOWAS military chiefs for their commitment to shared vision of peace, unity and development within the region.
“Over the years, our region has faced evolving security challenges, from terrorism and insurgency to maritime insecurity and transnational crime.
“Yet, through our collective resolve and cooperation, we have made significant strides in tackling those threats.
“Your effort is instrumental to our dedication to strengthening military collaboration, intelligence sharing and capacity building to safeguard our nation and people,” he said.
The minister said that Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to the ideal of ECOWAS and the operationalisation of regional security.
“Furthermore, no single nation can address these challenges alone. And tonight’s gathering is a testament to enduring spirit of partnership that bind us together.
“Let us renew our determination to uphold the values of professionalism, resilience, and unity in our collective defence effort.
“Together, we shall continue to build a safer and more prosperous West Africa,” he added.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, said the gathering marked a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to promote regional security and cooperation within the ECOWAS community.
Musa called on ECOWAS defence chiefs to use the opportunity to reflect on the shared goals and aspirations that bind the countries together as members of the ECOWAS Community.
He also charged them to reaffirm commitment to working together to promote peace, stability, security and development in the region.
“I am confident that the discussions and deliberations these few days have been fruitful and productive, leading to concrete actions that will further strengthen our collective efforts towards achieving a more secure and prosperous West Africa,” he said.
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